3D printing stands as a beacon of innovation in recent times. The capability to swiftly produce parts, toys, models, and more at will feels straight out of a science fiction narrative—yet achievable from the comfort of your own desk. While initially commanding high prices, the cost of these printers has significantly decreased. In fact, the following 10 options are remarkably inexpensive.
1. Peachy Printer ($100)
Featuring easy snap-fit assembly, customizable reservoir sizing, eight resin color options, and an unbeatable price (even compared to the 3Doodler 3D printing pen), the Peachy Printer could be your top choice for a first foray into 3D printing. Peachy is committed to fostering free, open-source software, enhancing its affordability in the long run.
The Peachy Printer is yet to be released, but the company aims to ship pre-ordered units this month (October 2015). Peachy also offers pre-orders for PeachyJuice Stuff, the printer’s resin, priced at $60 per liter for a single color. Additionally, Peachy is developing a fully assembled 3D printer, priced at $400, eliminating the need for assembly.
2. FabX 2.0 (₹ 29,999 / $460)
FabX 2.0 enhances the successful FabX 3D printer, adding great features. The outer case is smaller, retaining a 100 x 100 x 100 mm build volume. It includes useful abilities: auto-leveling build plates, printing from a micro SD card, cooling prints, and minimizing vibrations. It’s straightforward: a single print button, no complex controls.
While FabX 2.0 is sold in India, 3Ding offers international shipping, though it may affect the price (their website notes a 3–4 week lead time). Nonetheless, it’s one of the best deals for a home 3D printer.
3. Mini Fabrikator ($240)
With dimensions of 80 x 80 x 80 mm, Tiny Boy’s Mini Fabrikator stands out as one of the smallest 3D printers available. Its compact size aims to facilitate use in educational settings, introducing children to 3D printing with ease. Assembly and maintenance are straightforward due to this emphasis on simplicity. Additionally, being open hardware, users enjoy unrestricted freedom with the device.
Priced competitively, only surpassed by the Peachy Printer, the Mini Fabrikator contends for the title of the best budget 3D printer. Continued community support suggests potential for future enhancements, further enhancing its appeal.
4. Tiko ($180)
Though unreleased and lacking pre-order availability, the Tiko unibody 3D printer presents an exciting development. Affordably priced, it boasts unique features absent in competitors. Its unibody construction ensures strength, lightness, and ease of assembly, while safeguarding the liquefier and printing area. Compatible with non-proprietary filament, it offers versatility. Moreover, its minimal reliance on high-precision components contributes to its affordability.
Despite eschewing high-precision components, the printer maintains remarkable consistency, thanks to its innovative design divergent from existing models. Upon release, it has the potential to revolutionize home 3D printing.
5. M3D Micro (now $349)
The Micro, a highly versatile 3D printer, is suitable for school, office, or home use. Priced at $349 for a limited time, it stands out as one of the most affordable options available. Despite its small build area of 109 x 113 mm at the base, tapering to 91 x 84 mm above 74 mm, up to 116 mm, its compact size ensures exceptional portability.
Auto-leveling and auto-calibration streamline printer setup, although some manual adjustments are still necessary for optimal performance, a common requirement for all 3D printers. To enhance functionality, accessories such as additional print beds, BuildTak sheets, spare nozzles, fans, and various filament colors are available for purchase directly from the M3D store.
6. Printrbot Play ($400)
One advantage of this affordable 3D printer is its fully assembled option, saving you time on setup. With a build area of 100 x 100 x 130 mm, it’s among the larger options in this price range, and it features a micro SD slot for untethered printing, freeing your computer.
For an additional $100, Printrbot offers the Simple, boasting a larger build volume (150 x 150 x 150 mm). This may justify the higher price if you seek expanded capabilities beyond the Play. Watch the video above for Printrbot’s recommendations on the best model for you. Nonetheless, the Play delivers great value with sturdy construction.
7. Prusa i3 ($600)
While available for $600 directly from the creator to support project development, you can also purchase a DIY kit on Amazon for $365, excluding the case. The i3 boasts a build area of 200 x 200 x 200 mm, surpassing that of lower-priced printers, enabling expansive printing projects.
The i3, renowned in the 3D printing community, offers an LCD screen for standalone operation, a heated print bed to prevent warping of ABS prints, and a top speed of 200 mm/s, exceeding cheaper alternatives. Additionally, it includes the essential assembly tools.
8. Flux ($670)
The Flux printer is exceptionally versatile—it handles both 3D printing and scanning, a unique feature among printers in its price range. Additionally, the deluxe model ($750) comes with a laser engraving attachment. Its compact case and delta design ensure portability and precision. Despite its relatively small build area—170 mm in diameter and 180 mm in height—it suffices for many non-industrial projects.
Operated through a smartphone app, Flux allows usage from anywhere, enabling real-time monitoring of print status and notifications upon completion. Wifi connectivity eliminates the need for a tethered computer. Its futuristic design also serves as a captivating conversation starter!
9. New Matter MOD-t ($400)
Like the Tiko and the Flux, the MOD-t is a sleek machine, fitting well in any setting, be it a workshop or a living room. Its appeal isn’t just aesthetic; featuring a browser-based interface, removable bed, and automatic leveling, it offers effortless usability. Wifi connectivity enables you to initiate printing from anywhere.
The build area measures a respectable 150 x 100 x 125 mm, accommodating small to mid-sized projects with ease. A clear plastic cover shields the entire printing area, minimizing noise and external disruptions (such as pets, children, or drafts). As of now, the MOD-t has a six-week backorder.
10. Cubify Cube ($1,000)
At the top end of the range, the Cube’s price could deter beginning 3D printing enthusiasts, but this printer offers smart printing spools, remote printing and monitoring via an app, wifi connectivity, high-speed printing, and a color touch screen, making it beginner-friendly and worthwhile.
The Cube boasts a solid print capacity for its size, allowing models of about 152 x 152 x 152 mm. Its sturdy design and home-safe certification ensure it’s suitable for home use, complemented by its appealing aesthetics. Cubify also offers various value packs with additional accessories and software for immediate setup.
3D Printing for Everyone
No longer limited to engineers and the wealthy, a plethora of new 3D printers are democratizing this technology. Starting at $100, you can initiate your home 3D printing journey. With an increasing array of options, you can easily find one that suits your budget and requirements. Choose one and embark on your journey today!
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.
